Chris Godwin developed a habit of hauling in contested catches during his three years at Penn State, and if he can showcase that skill in Tampa Bay this year, he’ll have an angle to earn playing time in his rookie season.

Godwin will begin his NFL career paired with third-year quarterback Jameis Winston, who brought the Bucs to the cusp of a playoff berth last season. Tampa Bay fell just short of the postseason, though, finishing an improved campaign with a 9-7 record.

While the Buccaneers appear on the rise, Godwin will still have an avenue to see the field in 2017. The Bucs signed veteran free agent wideout DeSean Jackson this offseason to start opposite Pro Bowler Mike Evans, but they lack a clear-cut No. 3 option in the receiving game.

Godwin should have an opportunity to assume that role.

Slot receiver Adam Humphries hauled in 55 receptions for 622 yards and two touchdowns last offseason, but he doesn’t have the dynamic skillset Godwin does. The former PSU star can run routes from the slot or play on the outside, and his 11 touchdowns as a junior last season suggest he can serve as a potent threat in the red zone.

Behind Evans, Jackson, Humphries and Godwin, the Bucs’ receiving corps consists of castaways and players clinging to threads of NFL life.

So, it’s clear Godwin has room to make an impact on Tampa’s offense in a variety of roles.

He’ll have a veteran in Jackson to learn from, a young star in Evans to reduced pressure and still won’t face a clogged depth chart. All in all, it’s not a bad spot for Godwin.